Best way to treat gingivitis at home
Gingivitis is managed at home by removing plaque carefully every day, while a dental cleaning is needed when hardened calculus prevents effective brushing.
What is the direct answer?
Gingivitis is managed at home by removing plaque carefully every day, while a dental cleaning is needed when hardened calculus prevents effective brushing.
What does this question mean?
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gingiva caused mainly by plaque at the gum margin. Plaque can mineralise into calculus, which remains attached to the tooth and cannot be removed with a toothbrush.
What can you do next?
Brush twice daily along the gumline with a soft brush, clean between teeth daily, and continue gently even if light bleeding occurs. A dental professional can scale calculus and show areas that need better plaque control.
When should you seek dental care?
Book an examination if bleeding, swelling, bad breath, or tenderness persists, or if gums recede or teeth feel loose. These findings may indicate periodontitis rather than uncomplicated gingivitis.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether calculus or periodontal pockets are present, how to clean each contact area, and whether a professional scale or periodontal treatment is required.
Frequently asked questions
Can this be managed at home?
Brush twice daily along the gumline with a soft brush, clean between teeth daily, and continue gently even if light bleeding occurs. A dental professional can scale calculus and show areas that need better plaque control.
What is the main reason to get an examination?
Book an examination if bleeding, swelling, bad breath, or tenderness persists, or if gums recede or teeth feel loose. These findings may indicate periodontitis rather than uncomplicated gingivitis.